The winners of the Vertical Farming World Awards 2024 were announced on 25 September at a Gala Dinner during the 5th annual Vertical Farming World Congress in Frankfurt.

The awards are organised by global food and drink experts Zenith Global. Celebrating excellence and innovation across the global vertical farming industry, entries were invited in 11 award categories spanning crops, technology, sustainability and commercial initiatives.

• The winners in the Best Research and Development Contribution category were:  LettUs Grow – John Innes Centre, Quadram Institute and LettUs Grow’s Vitamin B12 fortification project

Researchers from the Quadram Institute and John Innes Centre discovered a way to biofortify pea shoots with Vitamin B12 using aeroponic indoor farming This breakthrough could contribute to more sustainable and healthier diets, in line with the Eat Lancet Planetary Health Diet and the recent WWF Eat4Life dietary recommendations.

Biofortification is the process of enhancing the nutritional value of crops through biotechnology, traditional plant breeding or agronomic practices that increase the amount or types of vitamins or nutrients compared to what is normally present.

In a Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) funded project, scientists from the John Innes Centre, LettUs Grow and the Quadram Institute have identified one of the nutrients that hold immense promise for biofortification – Vitamin B12. The project uses LettUs Grow’s ultrasonic aeroponic technology to grow B12 fortified pea shoots which contain the recommended daily dose in a single small portion.

It is a powerful tool that can address malnutrition, particularly for those in developing countries where access to nutrient-rich foods is often limited. Traditionally, B12 has been a nutrient primarily obtained from animal sources. Deficiency can lead to severe and irreversible damage, particularly to the brain and nervous system. As we’re increasingly being encouraged to move towards more plant-rich diets for both human and planetary health, B12 is becoming a nutrient of great interest. Biofortification can unlock new sources of this essential nutrient.

Prof. Martin Warren, Chief Scientific Officer at the Quadram Institute said: “We’re delighted our work with LettUs Grow has been recognised for Best Research and Development by the Vertical Farming World Awards, and many congratulations to the LettUs Grow team.

“This is a really exciting development in providing an adequate intake of vitamin B12 to enhance overall health and well-being. This is important as B12 plays a crucial role in various bodily functions, including red blood cell formation, nerve function, and DNA synthesis.”

Many people, especially those on plant-based diets are prone to B12 deficiency and insufficiency – and while vitamin B12 supplements are available, some people may find it more convenient and natural to obtain essential nutrients directly from whole foods. Fortified plants hold the potential to provide a more integrated way to meet nutritional requirements.”